R360 Recruits Subject to 10-Year Suspension from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has announced that participants who sign with the “breakaway” R360 will be prohibited for a decade.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent NRL players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve multiple men's teams and women's teams operating from key urban centers worldwide.

The Samoan the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

A group of rugby union nations, among them Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be entities that seek to pirate our game for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in development systems or the advancement of talent. They only leverage the hard work of other organizations, putting players at risk of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

The organization is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the possible union sanctions were announced recently, it said: “We want to work in partnership as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will seek approval for its proposals from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its board session in 2026.